
Chiang Mai to Koh Samui: 6 Weeks, 2,000km
We loved our 2020 bicycle tour in Thailand so much that we did it again, this time taking along our friend Deana. We knew she was tough enough, flexible and adventurous enough to take on whatever challenges presented—long distances, hot baking sun, and the thrill of the unknown. Fully self-supported, we were three free-spirited adventurers. With fully loaded bicycles we headed out for an epic journey that took us from the northern part of Thailand all the way down through the central part, skirted Bangkok further down the coastline toward Surat Thani. After averaging approximately 80km a day by pure pedal power, our bodies were tired and we escaped to the island of Koh Samui and Khao Sok National Park which was an absolute highlight of the journey! This much we can tell you—Thailand is a fantastical, magical country.
Bangkok—By Night (Khao San Craziness)
Night time in the Khao San Road district is beyond description. We can however say that the human interactions that punctuate our experience enrich us. We don’t just walk by vendors. We stop, talk & connect. Laughing with the guy from Myanmar who works at La Moda Suit (30 Ram Buttri, Phra athith) who tells... Continue reading→
Bangkok: Public Transit for Newbs
We wake up and venture out into the street to rustle up breakfast and plan our day. Actually our “plan” usually means no plan and we go whichever way the wind blows. The wind blew us to the Palladium and the Platinum shopping areas via the public transit canal boat. We look like total tourists... Continue reading→
Bangkok—The Quiet of the Night
It’s absolutely stinkin hot during the afternoon. Relentless and overbearing, we are sweaty and sticky just stepping out the door. Even your kneecaps sweat—it’s just that hot & humid! It’s not a heat wave—it’s just normal and people learn to live with it. Therefore, evening exploring is far more comfortable—especially since Bangkok comes alive when... Continue reading→
Bangkok—Lots & Lots of Wats
One could, but shouldn’t miss the important Wats in Bangkok. The Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) and the Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit, which we didn’t see). There’s also the Grand Palace which is…well, grand! If you love beautifully maintained, ornate, shiny gold & glistening architecture of cultural importance, then doing... Continue reading→
Bangkok—Fitting it all in
We can’t do it all. We need to recognize that our flight leaves on Thursday and accept reality (maybe cry a little too). So we prioritize. Shopping at The Bobae Market, then massage, then an evening bike tour of Bangkok. The Bobae Market is a clothing market that primarily sells wholesale but will also deal... Continue reading→
Thailand: Can’t We Stay Just a Little Bit Longer?
We have come to love Thailand. It’s so full of life and humanness. The people are precious and the culture here just makes you feel like you’ve been wrapped in a warm cozy blanket. Buddhist beliefs permeate all aspects of life here, and people continually try to make good karma by doing good. Thais are... Continue reading→